If a > 0 and b < 0, which of the following statements are true about the values of x that solve the equation x^2 – ax + b = 0?

I. They have opposite signs.
II. Their sum is greater than zero.
III. Their product equals –b.

Correct answer marked below

I only

II only

III only

I and II only

Correct

I, II and III

You can see the correct answer above. Sign in for free to unlock the complete worked solution.

Get detailed analytics, unlock full explanations, and move up difficulty tiers as you practice.

Explanation

Create a free account to reveal the correct answer, see the step-by-step explanation, and start tracking your GMAT progress.

Comments

Be the first to share your thoughts and help others understand it better.

What this question tests

Your ability to manipulate linear and quadratic expressions, substitute unknowns, and solve equations under time pressure.

Losing a sign when moving terms across the equals sign, or dividing both sides by a variable that could equal zero.

If a > 0 and b < 0, which of the following statements are true about the values of x that solve the equation x^2 – ax + b = 0?I. They have opposite signs.II. Their sum is greater than zero.III. Their product equals –b.